Medication Abortion

Medication Abortion (First Trimester – Up to 10 Weeks LMP)

The abortion pill goes by many names, including medication abortion, early medication abortion, RU-486, Mifeprex (Mifepristone) and Mifeprostol. Women who had their last period within the past 10 weeks (70 days) can take the abortion pill to end a pregnancy through abortion.

Nearly 1 in 4 abortions in the U.S. are now done by early medication abortion,1 and doctors in some states can give an abortion pill from a distance in what is called a telemedicine abortion.

The abortion pill is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in women up to the 70th day after her last menstrual period.2 Some abortion doctors give the pill to a woman who is past the FDA’s approved 70-day-limit, and even some doctors who have been arrested and charged with giving the pill to non-pregnant women.3

In order to make sure you’re safe during this process, always ask for a doctor or other qualified medical professional (registered nurse or sonographer) to do an ultrasound to make sure you’re pregnant and within the 10 weeks the FDA requires.

Since a medication abortion will not end a life-threatening ectopic pregnancy4, your life could be in danger if you do not confirm that you are pregnant with an ultrasound.5

Note: Option Line and our network of participating pregnancy centers offers peer counseling and accurate information about all pregnancy options; however, these centers do not offer or refer for abortion services. The information presented on this website and given through contacting Option Line is intended for general education purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional and/or medical advice.